Hamalis named first holder of endowed chair in religion

June 24, 2011—North Central College recently announced that Perry Hamalis, associate professor of religious studies and director of academic opportunities, was named the first holder of the Cecelia Schneller Mueller Professor of Religion endowed chair.

The new endowed chair was made possible by the generosity of alumnae Cecelia Schneller Mueller, Class of 1927, and her sister Mary Schneller Rosar, Class of 1933.

Hamalis holds a B.A. from Boston College, a master of divinity degree from Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology and a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago. A member of North Central College's faculty since 2004, his expertise and publications in the field of Eastern Orthodox Ethics have made him a sought-after lecturer at conferences and universities. He also serves as a consultant for the World Council of Churches.

Hamalis was awarded the College’s Dissinger Award for Junior Faculty in 2008 after colleagues and students commended him for his teaching ability. He was granted tenure in 2010 and has been responsible for expanding and engaging students in the prestigious College Scholars Honors Program for high-achieving undergraduates. Under his leadership, the program has grown in student participation and successful completion to a final honors thesis.